Do You have what it takes to be Generous?

“The tsunami of generosity is too strong to say no. Most of us are never taught how to receive. Only how to give. And when we encounter people who refuse to let us leave empty handed, we don’t know what to say. The correct answer is, “Yes, thank you, I would love three pounds of stuffed mushrooms to take home with me.” It doesn’t matter if you’re hungry. Or even if you like mushrooms. You have to allow yourself to be the recipient of their generosity. Just let the wave wash over you. Don’t rob people of their joy. Inspired by memories of family dinners.” ~ Scott Ginsberg, Author & Speaker

Scott is right. There are many factors that enrich our growth – both personal and spiritual. The depth that comes from exploring the journey of generosity can be exceptionally surprising. People can be generous with love, understanding, forgiveness and much more. We all need to practice being better receivers. Say “yes” to every request for help.

“My, my, what a pretty dress!” and you answer, “Yeah, I got a really great deal at Goodwill.” Being a better receiver might elicit the response, “Thank you,” and smile. Being generous brings happiness and joy. Joyful generosity can change the world.

“Acting with an unselfish regard for others doesn’t always come naturally, even though many psychologists believe we’re hard-wired for empathy since cooperative behavior allowed our ancestors to survive under harsh conditions. But most of us realize that when we make the effort to give without expectations of reciprocity, we feel fulfilled and energized.” ~ Patricia Britton, MFT

We have so much more to offer this world than just financial resources; time, talents, Love, service to others, words that we speak and let’s not forget prayer. Never underestimate the power of small gifts. Generosity inherently shifts our focus off of ourselves.

• Sometimes a smile to a total stranger may be the very thing they needed at that moment in time.
• Volunteering to help an older woman carry groceries to her car is a small gift of generosity, but to her it may make her day.
• Donate a book you’ve already read to a friend or to the library.
• Standing in line for food? Pay for the meal of the person behind you.
• Hand a cold bottle of water to a beggar in an intersection.
• Clean out your closet. Donate; clothes, toys, furniture – things you don’t really need anymore.
• Make a sign that say’s “Free Hugs,” stand in a busy area and give a hug to anyone who will accept one.
• Deposit a coin in an expired parking meter.
• Join the “Pay It Forward” Movement!
• Inspire others to be generous. It’s contagious.
• Say please, thank you, excuse me and you’re welcome: basic manners but quite often neglected.
• Open doors for people.
• Offer an idea that has helped you to someone else.

This is the woman who started the “Pay It Forward” Movement!

Know someone who is “Paying It Forward?” Send Catherine Ryan Hyde (the author of the “Pay It Forward” book) an e-mail and let her know. She would love to hear from you. The purpose of the “Pay It Forward Movement” Website is to bring together, in one place, as many real life stories as she can. – www.PayItForwardMovement.org

Generosity makes people smile. Generosity demonstrates kindness, love and empathy. It feels as good to give as it does to receive. We also need to address the the need to incorporate generosity towards employees and, above all, our customers.

I have a brother-in-law who volunteers his time to the Red Cross whenever there is a natural disaster. He has traveled across the U.S. from hurricane Katrina, flooding in several states and super storm Sandy to offer his assistance. Others I know are generous with the money to help the homeless. Giving increases happiness, fulfillment, and purpose in the life of the giver.

Congregations that practice Extravagant Generosity provide ministries that address our spiritual needs to give in ways that exceed all expectations and extend to unexpected measures. Fruitful congregations thrive because of extraordinary sharing, willing sacrifice, and joyous giving out of love for God and neighbor.

“Generosity is no longer the selfless act we’ve long thought it to be. Studies now suggest that one of the biggest benefactors of generosity is the person who is dishing it out.” ~ Lisa Firestone

Our world is desperately seeking cheerful and generous givers. It’s high time we all explore the possibilities in profound generosity. To me real generosity is doing something for someone who will never know you were the giver. Think of it as your own form of philanthropy – your contribution to the world. Remember selfish strategies do not work as well as more generous strategies. We all evolve best when we help each other. Generosity makes our world a better place.

“Believe, when you are most unhappy, that there is something for you to do in the world. So long as you can sweeten another’s pain, life is not in vain.” ~ Helen Keller

Bet you’ve never met an unhappy generous person!

BONUS Article: Generosity: What’s in It for You?

Copyright © 2014 – Larry James. This idea is adapted from Larry’s books, “How to Really Love the One You’re With: Affirmative Guidelines for a Healthy Love Relationship,” “LoveNotes for Lovers: Words That Make Music for Two Hearts Dancing” and “Red Hot LoveNotes for Lovers.” Larry James is a professional speaker, author, relationship coach and an award winning nondenominational Wedding Officiant. He performs the most “Romantic” wedding ceremony you will find anywhere. Something NEW about relationships is posted every 4th day on this Relationships BLOG.

Do You Have What it Takes to be Generous?

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